Cartoon Modern.

This past week saw the release of 'Cartoon Modern', Amid Amidi's long-awaited book on 1950s animation.
Beautiful to look at and rigorously researched, it focuses on the change in emphasis from the more naturalistic and representational design theories of previous decades to a more abstract and graphic approach influenced by modern art trends of the period.

Sadly, the release of the book coincided with the death of one of the greatest animation designers of them all, Ed Benedict, responsible for The Flintstones, Yogi Bear, Huckleberry Hound, Quick Draw McGraw and many more.

Also available this week is 'Top Hats and Flappers: the art of Russell Patterson' by Shane Glines, Alex Chun and Armando 'Prof' Mendez.
Patterson's delineations of the roaring twenties, speakeasies and high society defined the era and his artistic influence can found in the work of artists as varied as Milton Caniff and Don Flowers.

Available from all good bookstores.